Last Friday night, in the midst of a cold front, the eighth season of Strictly Come Dancing South Africa waltzed onto our TV screens. The new season brings with it a new list of 10 celebrities teaming up with 10 Latin and ballroom dance professionals. SABC 3 darlings Katlego Maboe (Expresso Morning Show) and Roxy Burger (Top Billing) return as co-hosts after teaming up for season seven last year. They took over the mantles from comedian Marc Lottering and Pabi Moloi.
We bring you some of the contestants:
Pearl Modiadie (Metro FM, Zaziwa)
The TV content producer, presenter, radio host and sometimes actor is really one to watch this season. Her first dance was fun and daring -– even with a foot injury.
Bridget Masinga (All-rounder)
Bridget has pretty much done everything in entertainment, including a stint on Generations in the mid-2000s. Her first dance was not the best (she received the lowest score of 12 out of 30) but she’s bound to come back fighting this Friday.
Slikour (Musician)
Slikour’s name being on the list feels the same way as Thapelo Mokoena’s in season six: “Huh? Can he dance?” But Mokoena made it all the way to the top three, so it’s not all bad.
Sureshnie Rider (Radio host)
The long-time 5FM presenter is always full of bubbly energy, and that alone should make her fun to watch. Her first dance was, however, one of the weaker ones.
Nkuli Tshirumbula (Muvhango actor)
Nkuli is representing Team Six Pack. His first dance wasn’t that bad, but his mesh top was better.
Jason Goliath (Comedian)
This season’s token comic comes in the form of one part of Goliath and Goliath. His first dance was much better than expected, and I’m calling it -– he’s going to be in the top four. The judges are still the sometimes terrible threesome – Samantha Peo, Michael Wentink and Tebogo Kgobokoe. Though the first episode was non-elimination, from this Friday everyone will be dancing to stay on the floor. Viewers will also be able to vote.